Real Madrid's Benzema extends contract until 2021

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has extended his contract to stay with La Liga's defending champions until 2021, the Spanish club announced on Wednesday.

Real Madrid confirmed the extension of the France forward in a statement released on its official website, reports Efe news agency.

"Real Madrid C.F. and Karim Benzema have agreed an extension to the player's contract, binding him to the club until June 30, 2021," the Spanish club said.

Real Madrid added that the 29-year-old Frenchman is to speak to media in the Santiago Bernabeu's press room on Thursday.

Benzema joined Real Madrid from Lyon in 2009 for some 35 million euros (about $42 million).

Throughout his career at Real Madrid, he has scored more than 180 goals and almost claimed all trophies with the Spanish club, including the titles of La Liga, Copa del Rey, Spanish Super Cup, Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.